KTM RC 490 Spotted Testing, India Launch Expected in 2027

The KTM RC 490 has finally been spotted testing in Europe for the first time. The new supersport is likely to be unveiled at the EICMA show in Milan next year. If things go as planned, the motorcycle could enter the Indian market by 2027.

The bike is expected to be manufactured by Bajaj Auto at its Chakan plant near Pune. This could help KTM price it competitively in India and international markets. Here’s everything we know so far.

Sharp, MotoGP-Inspired Styling

The test bike looks aggressive and race-ready. It carries MotoGP-inspired winglets on the fairing and a sharp design. The headlamp is a single projector LED with sleek LED indicators. At the rear, there’s no dedicated tail light, so that it may be integrated into the indicators. Compared to the RC 390, the design is much sharper and more modern.

The bike also gets a high-set pillion seat, but it looks very small. Like other RC models, the 490 is clearly not pillion-friendly. Furthermore, the clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs confirm a very sporty, committed riding position.

New Twin-Cylinder Engine

The spy shots confirm a parallel-twin engine with two exhaust downpipes. The displacement is expected to be around 500cc. This will be a big upgrade from the KTM 390’s single-cylinder motor.

Experts believe it could make a little over 50PS. For comparison, the Aprilia RS 457’s engine produces 47.58PS and 43.5Nm. The KTM’s new twin should also be smoother and more refined than the current 390 motor.

Frame, Suspension and Brakes

The RC 490 will likely use an all-new frame for better handling. The suspension setup includes adjustable WP inverted forks at the front and a linked monoshock at the rear. Both are expected to offer adjustability for sporty riding.

The bike also comes with disc brakes at both ends. The test mule runs on Pirelli Diablo Rosso III tyres, which are known for excellent grip. The India-spec version may use different tyres to control pricing.

Features and Tech

This motorcycle is expected to come with a colour TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity. Navigation, call alerts, and music control are also likely. Safety features may include cornering ABS, cornering traction control, and multiple riding modes.

Moreover, the bike is expected to get a bi-directional quickshifter, which has already been spotted in the spy images. KTM could also introduce some new premium features on the 490 platform.

Possible Links to CFMoto

The wheels and the single-sided swingarm look very similar to the CFMoto 450SR-S. CFMoto already has a partnership with KTM in the Chinese market. So, it is possible that KTM is testing some shared components.

The 490 series will be made in India by Bajaj. This will allow KTM to keep costs lower and compete strongly in price-sensitive markets like India. Apart from this, the KTM RC 490 will compete with the Aprilia RS 457 and the Kawasaki Ninja 500. KTM is also working on a Duke 490 and an Adventure 490, based on the same platform.

Before you go, don’t forget to check out the top 5 best-selling 125cc motorcycles in India.